In Tokyo, you naturally pass through Tokyo Station at least once during your travels. On the first day of this trip, after getting off the bus at Tokyo Station, I passed through Tokyo Station once again while continuing my journey. After having a quick meal at Yurakucho Station, one stop away from Tokyo Station, and exploring the Bic Camera store, I returned to Tokyo Station.
“The Two Faces of Tokyo Station”
Tokyo Station is uniquely constructed with completely different appearances when viewed from the west and east. The western side is modeled after Amsterdam Centraal Station in the Netherlands, while the eastern side exhibits a modern atmosphere.
- Tokyo, Two Faces of Tokyo Station: Tokyo, the Dual-Faced Station – Tokyo Station
“Tokyo Station West Side, Marunouchi Entrance”
When viewing Tokyo Station from the west, you can see buildings constructed in a past architectural style, known as the “Marunouchi Entrance.” This was designed to mimic Amsterdam Centraal Station. The architect, “Tatsuno Kingo,” is the same individual who designed the Bank of Korea and Busan Station in Korea.
During the Second World War, Tokyo Station suffered extensive damage from bombings, leading to significant destruction. The Marunouchi Entrance was restored after the bombings, utilized until 2007, and then reconstructed in 2012 to recreate the appearance of 1914, a century ago.
“Tokyo Station East Side, Yaesu Underground Mall”
When viewing Tokyo Station from the east, it offers a completely different ambiance. If the western side evokes a nostalgic atmosphere, the eastern side exudes a modern feel. Exiting from the eastern side of Tokyo Station leads to an underground shopping mall called the Yaesu Underground Mall. Nearby, you can find large shopping malls, providing a different feel from the elegant atmosphere on the western side.
“Tokyo Station West Side View, Marunouchi Entrance”
As I casually passed Tokyo Station, I took a photo of it. The view from the west preserves a picturesque landscape, almost as if returning to the modern era. Marunouchi Entrance on the western side has a serene atmosphere, with a palace nearby.
However, Japanese palaces may not be welcoming places for Koreans, so I quickly moved on after taking a brief look from a distance.
“Japan Tokyo, Tokyo Station”
- Address: 1 Chome Marunouchi, Chiyoda, Tokyo, Japan
- Website: http://www.tokyoinfo.com/